US3650413A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Automatic tape cartridge changing mechanism
Assignee: Sarkes Tarzian Inc
•
Filing: 1969-09-25
•
Granted: 1972-03-21
•
Expires: 1989-09-25
Abstract
Abstract A removable or detachable magazine is provided which receives and stores a plurality of flat rectangular magnetic tape cartridges. Each cartridge is provided with two reels on which a short length of tape is wound, the ends of the tape being secured to the reels. An automatic cartridge changing mechanism is provided with a magazine receiving well into which the loaded magazine may be placed with either one of two orientations. When the magazine is placed in the well in one orientation a driveshaft is positioned within the central aperture of one group of reels of the cartridges positioned within the magazine, and when the magazine is positioned with the reverse orientation, the driveshaft is positioned within the central apertures of the other reel in each cartridge. When the end of a particular tape is reached, means are provided responsive to the increase in tension in the tape for initiating an automatic tape changing cycle during which the transducer head is automatically withdrawn from the tape which has been played, the magazine is moved upwardly in the well to position another cartridge for engagement by the driveshaft, and the transducer head is then moved into engagement with the new tape which is wound on the reel surrounding the driveshaft during the next playing cycle. This automatic changing cycle takes place within approximately one second and without rewinding the tape in the previously played cartridge. The magnetic tape cartridges which are positioned within the magazine are thus played in rapid succession in the order in which they are placed in the magazine. A tape cartridge reject means is provided for manually shifting from one magnetic tape cartridge to another at any time so that if the user does not wish to start or continue playing one cartridge he may manually reject this tape and immediately bring the next tape cartridge into playing position, in a manner comparable to the manual reject action of a conventional disc record changer. The magazine is locked in its selected position in the well at all times during which the transducer head is in contact with one of the cartridges so as to prevent inadvertent movement of the tape while the head is in engagement therewith. However, when all of the cartridges in the magazine have been played, the transducer head is moved away from the tape in the last cartridge, the machine is automatically turned off, and an indication is made that the magazine may be bodily removed from the machine. The magazine may now be inserted into the well with the opposite orientation so that the driveshaft is arranged to rewind the tapes within the respective cartridges back onto the reels on which they were originally wound. The selections on the other sound channel of each cartridge are thus each played in rapid succession but in the reverse order.
Inventors
- 👤 Morton L Weigel
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-03 09:38
CPC Classifications
G; G11; G11B; G11B15/00; G11B15/675; G11B15/68; G11B15/6805; G11B15/681
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 138
Claim 1
Independent Claim
84 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each magnetic tape having a plurality of sound tracks thereon, and automatic tape player means for successively playing one sound track of each of said magnetic tapes in a predetermined order.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
84 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each magnetic tape having a plurality of sound tracks thereon, and automatic tape player means for successively playing one sound track of each of said magnetic tapes in a predetermined order.
Claim 3
Independent Claim
131 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and automatic tape player means for successively playing each of the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction in the order in which said cartridges are arranged in said magazine when said magazine is positioned in said well in a first of said two orientations and upon removal and reinsertion of the magazine into said well in the other of said two orientations for playing said tapes in the other direction in the reverse order.
Claim 4
Independent Claim
131 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and automatic tape player means for successively playing each of the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction in the order in which said cartridges are arranged in said magazine when said magazine is positioned in said well in a first of said two orientations and upon removal and reinsertion of the magazine into said well in the other of said two orientations for playing said tapes in the other direction in the reverse order.
Claim 5
Independent Claim
155 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each of said magnetic tapes being initially wound on one of said pair of reels in said cartridges, and tape player means for first successively playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by winding each tape onto the other reel in said cartridges in a sequence determined by the position of each cartridge within said magazine and then successively playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by winding each tape back onto the reel on which the tape was originally wound and in a sequence which is the reverse of said predetermined sequence.
Claim 6
Independent Claim
155 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each of said magnetic tapes being initially wound on one of said pair of reels in said cartridges, and tape player means for first successively playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by winding each tape onto the other reel in said cartridges in a sequence determined by the position of each cartridge within said magazine and then successively playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by winding each tape back onto the reel on which the tape was originally wound and in a sequence which is the reverse of said predetermined sequence.
Claim 7
Independent Claim
147 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, driving means, and tape player means for playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by successively connecting said drive means to the other reel in said cartridges, thereby to wind each tape on the other reel in said cartridges in a sequence determined by the position of each cartridge in said magazine, and then playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by successively connecting said driving means to said one reel in each cartridge in a sequence which is the reverse of said predetermined sequence.
Claim 8
Independent Claim
147 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, driving means, and tape player means for playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by successively connecting said drive means to the other reel in said cartridges, thereby to wind each tape on the other reel in said cartridges in a sequence determined by the position of each cartridge in said magazine, and then playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by successively connecting said driving means to said one reel in each cartridge in a sequence which is the reverse of said predetermined sequence.
Claim 9
Independent Claim
184 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said reels having central apertures therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with the central apertures of any one of said reels to drive the same at a constant speed of rotation, and tape player means for playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by successively connecting said drive shaft means to one reel in said cartridges, thereby to wind each tape onto said one reel in said cartridges, and then playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by successively connecting said drive shaft means to the other reel in said cartridge, thereby to wind each tape back onto the reel on which the tape was originally wound.
Claim 10
Independent Claim
184 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well in either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said reels having central apertures therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with the central apertures of any one of said reels to drive the same at a constant speed of rotation, and tape player means for playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in one direction by successively connecting said drive shaft means to one reel in said cartridges, thereby to wind each tape onto said one reel in said cartridges, and then playing the magnetic tapes in said cartridges in the other direction by successively connecting said drive shaft means to the other reel in said cartridge, thereby to wind each tape back onto the reel on which the tape was originally wound.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
96 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, a flywheel, means for rotating said flywheel, drive means normally connected to said flywheel for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, cycling means for moving said drive means into operative relation with different ones of said cartridges, and control means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means and connecting said flywheel to said cycling means.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
96 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, a flywheel, means for rotating said flywheel, drive means normally connected to said flywheel for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, cycling means for moving said drive means into operative relation with different ones of said cartridges, and control means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means and connecting said flywheel to said cycling means.
Claim 13
Independent Claim
186 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, a magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine onto one reel in said one cartridge, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said winding means to that said winding means is in position to wind the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine, and means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for causing said automatic cartridge changing means to move said magazine relative to said winding means until said winding means is positioned at the location of another one of said cartridges in said magazine.
Claim 14
Independent Claim
186 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, a magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine onto one reel in said one cartridge, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said winding means to that said winding means is in position to wind the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine, and means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for causing said automatic cartridge changing means to move said magazine relative to said winding means until said winding means is positioned at the location of another one of said cartridges in said magazine.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
120 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in said magazine and each including reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, means for playing the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said tape playing means so that the tape in another one of said cartridges is played, and control means operable independently of said automatic cartridge changing means for causing relative movement between said magazine and said tape playing means without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
120 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in said magazine and each including reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, means for playing the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said tape playing means so that the tape in another one of said cartridges is played, and control means operable independently of said automatic cartridge changing means for causing relative movement between said magazine and said tape playing means without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 17
Independent Claim
239 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft, cooperating means on said drive shaft and said central apertures of said reels for interlocking any one of said reels with said drive shaft to drive the same, means fOr positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges, means for driving said drive shaft so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound onto said one reel, automatic tape changing means responsive to the increase in tension on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive shaft is being driven for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 18
Independent Claim
239 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft, cooperating means on said drive shaft and said central apertures of said reels for interlocking any one of said reels with said drive shaft to drive the same, means fOr positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges, means for driving said drive shaft so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound onto said one reel, automatic tape changing means responsive to the increase in tension on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive shaft is being driven for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 19
Independent Claim
153 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto said one reel thereof, and tape cartridge reject means operable during the playing of tape in one of said cartridges for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in another one of said cartridges onto said one reel thereof.
Claim 20
Independent Claim
153 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto said one reel thereof, and tape cartridge reject means operable during the playing of tape in one of said cartridges for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in another one of said cartridges onto said one reel thereof.
Claim 21
Independent Claim
131 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, a transducer head in engagement with the tape in said one cartridge as it is wound on said one reel, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to the increase in load on said winding means when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said head and said plurality of cartridges to position said head in engagement with the tape in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 22
Independent Claim
131 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, a transducer head in engagement with the tape in said one cartridge as it is wound on said one reel, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to the increase in load on said winding means when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said head and said plurality of cartridges to position said head in engagement with the tape in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 23
Independent Claim
118 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto the corresponding reel thereof without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 24
Independent Claim
118 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto the corresponding reel thereof without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 25
Independent Claim
159 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof connected to said pair of reels, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with any one of said reels, means for positioning said magazine with said drive shaft interlocking means adapted to drive said one reel of one of said cartridges, means for rotating said drive shaft so that the tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, and means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in sAid one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said magazine and said interlocking means so that said interlocking means is positioned for engagement with a reel on a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 26
Independent Claim
159 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof connected to said pair of reels, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with any one of said reels, means for positioning said magazine with said drive shaft interlocking means adapted to drive said one reel of one of said cartridges, means for rotating said drive shaft so that the tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, and means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in sAid one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said magazine and said interlocking means so that said interlocking means is positioned for engagement with a reel on a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
109 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, a plurality of flat rectangular magnetic tape cartridges each having an opening in one edge thereof through which magnetic tape within the cartridge is accessible, a magazine for holding said cartridges in predetermined spaced relation having a pair of sidewalls and a rear wall, said rear wall having a slot therein, and means for supporting said cartridges in said magazine with the edge opening thereof facing said slot in said rear wall of said magazine while permitting each of said cartridges to be removed from said magazine, turned over and reinserted with the edge opening thereof still facing said slot.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
109 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, a plurality of flat rectangular magnetic tape cartridges each having an opening in one edge thereof through which magnetic tape within the cartridge is accessible, a magazine for holding said cartridges in predetermined spaced relation having a pair of sidewalls and a rear wall, said rear wall having a slot therein, and means for supporting said cartridges in said magazine with the edge opening thereof facing said slot in said rear wall of said magazine while permitting each of said cartridges to be removed from said magazine, turned over and reinserted with the edge opening thereof still facing said slot.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
103 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a transducer head, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and manual reject means operable during periods when a tape in one of said cartridges is being played for positioning said head in operative relation to the tape in another one of said cartridges while the tape in said rejected cartridge remains unchanged in position within the cartridge after said head is moved out of operative engagement therewith.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
103 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a transducer head, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and manual reject means operable during periods when a tape in one of said cartridges is being played for positioning said head in operative relation to the tape in another one of said cartridges while the tape in said rejected cartridge remains unchanged in position within the cartridge after said head is moved out of operative engagement therewith.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
98 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a transducer head, a well, a holder for a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges, means for positioning said holder in said well with said head in operative relation with one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and means for preventing said holder from being removed from said well while a tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
98 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of, a transducer head, a well, a holder for a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges, means for positioning said holder in said well with said head in operative relation with one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and means for preventing said holder from being removed from said well while a tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 33
Independent Claim
77 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in said magazine and each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and tape player means responsive to the positioning of said magazine at a predetermined location within said well for automatically initiating playing of the tape in the cartridge at said predetermined location.
Claim 34
Independent Claim
77 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in said magazine and each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and tape player means responsive to the positioning of said magazine at a predetermined location within said well for automatically initiating playing of the tape in the cartridge at said predetermined location.
Claim 35
Independent Claim
147 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, means for playing the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said playing means so that said playing means is in position to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine, and means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for controlling said automatic cartridge changing means to cause movement of said magazine until said playing means is positioned at the location of another one of said cartridges in said magazine.
Claim 36
Independent Claim
147 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, means for playing the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine, automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing relative movement between said magazine and said playing means so that said playing means is in position to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine, and means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for controlling said automatic cartridge changing means to cause movement of said magazine until said playing means is positioned at the location of another one of said cartridges in said magazine.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
133 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative reLation with another of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive means is moving tape and independently of said automatic cartridge changing means for positioning said drive means in operative relation with a different one of said cartridges while maintaining the tape in the previously driven cartridge at the point at which said drive means is disengaged therefrom.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
133 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative reLation with another of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive means is moving tape and independently of said automatic cartridge changing means for positioning said drive means in operative relation with a different one of said cartridges while maintaining the tape in the previously driven cartridge at the point at which said drive means is disengaged therefrom.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
59 words
The combination of claim 19, wherein said cartridges each include a pair of reels on which a length of tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, and said automatic tape cartridge changing means is responsive to the increase in tension in the tape in said one cartridge when the end of said tape is reached.
Claim 40
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to the increase in load on said winding means when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto the corresponding reel thereof without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 41
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, means for winding the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges onto one reel in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to the increase in load on said winding means when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said winding means so that said winding means is effective to wind the magnetic tape in a different one of said cartridges onto the corresponding reel thereof without rewinding the tape in said one cartridge.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
25 words
The apparatus of claim 21, which includes means for indicating the position of said winding means with respect to said plurality of magnetic tape cartridges.
Claim 43
Independent Claim
143 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined spaced relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said magazine having a vertically extending slot in one wall thereof and said cartridges having openings in the edge thereof facing said slot so that magnetic tape within said cartridges is accessible through said slot and said openings, a reproducing head, means for causing relative movement between said head and said magazine to bring said head into alignment with magnetic tape in different ones of said cartridges, means for moving said head into engagement with the aligned magnetic tape, and means for driving one of the reels of the aligned cartridge so that the aligned tape is wound on said one reel.
Claim 44
Independent Claim
143 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined spaced relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said magazine having a vertically extending slot in one wall thereof and said cartridges having openings in the edge thereof facing said slot so that magnetic tape within said cartridges is accessible through said slot and said openings, a reproducing head, means for causing relative movement between said head and said magazine to bring said head into alignment with magnetic tape in different ones of said cartridges, means for moving said head into engagement with the aligned magnetic tape, and means for driving one of the reels of the aligned cartridge so that the aligned tape is wound on said one reel.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
78 words
The apparatus of claim 23, wherein each of said magnetic tapes has a pair of sound channels thereon, one of said sound channels being reproduced by said head as said aligned tape is wound on said one reel, and means whereby said magazine may be inverted and said driving means moved into engagement with the other reel of the aligned cartridge so that the aligned tape is rewound on said other reel and said other sound channel reproduced.
Claim 46
Independent Claim
173 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having first and second reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said magnetic tape having a pair of sound channels thereon, said magazine having a slot in one wall thereof and said cartridges having openings therein facing said slot so that said magnetic tape within said cartridge is accessible through said slot and said openings, means for automatically playing one sound channel of each of said magnetic tapes in succession in the order in which the corresponding cartridges are positioned in said magazine when said magazine is inserted into said well with one of said two orientations, and means for automatically playing the other sound channel of said magnetic tapes in the reverse order when said magazinE is inserted into said well with the other of said two orientations.
Claim 47
Independent Claim
173 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising means defining a magazine receiving well, a magazine insertable into said well with either of two orientations, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having first and second reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, said magnetic tape having a pair of sound channels thereon, said magazine having a slot in one wall thereof and said cartridges having openings therein facing said slot so that said magnetic tape within said cartridge is accessible through said slot and said openings, means for automatically playing one sound channel of each of said magnetic tapes in succession in the order in which the corresponding cartridges are positioned in said magazine when said magazine is inserted into said well with one of said two orientations, and means for automatically playing the other sound channel of said magnetic tapes in the reverse order when said magazinE is inserted into said well with the other of said two orientations.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
130 words
The apparatus of claim 25, which includes means for moving said magazine within said well to a number of predetermined positions corresponding to the positions of said cartridges within said magazine, and means for playing said magnetic tapes in succession when said magazine is moved to said plurality of positions, said magazine moving means being operative to move said magazine to said predetermined positions with either one of said two orientations of said magazine within said well, whereby one sound channel of said magnetic tapes is played in predetermined order when said magazine has one of said two orientations in said well and the other sound channel of said magnetic tapes is played in the reverse order when said magazine has the other of said two orientations in said well.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
112 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of a transducer head, a well, a holder for a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges, means for positioning said holder in said well with said head in operative relation with the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and means operative when the tape in a predetermined one of said cartridges has been played for moving said holder to an unloading position in which said holder may be moved from said well.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
112 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a series of magnetic tape cartridges, the combination of a transducer head, a well, a holder for a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges, means for positioning said holder in said well with said head in operative relation with the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means operative during successive cartridge changing cycles to position said head in operative relation to the tape in different ones of the cartridges, and means operative when the tape in a predetermined one of said cartridges has been played for moving said holder to an unloading position in which said holder may be moved from said well.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
29 words
The combination of claim 27, which includes means for preventing said holder from being removed from said well while a tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 52
Independent Claim
94 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and tape player means including automatic cartridge changing means for successively playing the tapes in said cartridges while winding the tape in each cartridge from one of said reels onto the other of said reels and then successively playing the tapes in said cartridges in the other direction while winding the tape in each cartridge from said other reel back onto said one reel.
Claim 53
Independent Claim
94 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, and tape player means including automatic cartridge changing means for successively playing the tapes in said cartridges while winding the tape in each cartridge from one of said reels onto the other of said reels and then successively playing the tapes in said cartridges in the other direction while winding the tape in each cartridge from said other reel back onto said one reel.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
59 words
The apparatus of claim 29, wherein each of said tapes has a pair of sound channels therein, one of said sound channels being played as said tapes are wound from said one reel onto said other reel and the other of said sound channels being played as said tapes are wound from said other reel onto said one reel.
Claim 55
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a base member, a removable magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, a transducer head positioned on said base member, means for positioning said magazine on said base member with said transducer head in position to engage the tape in one of said cartridges, means including said head for playing the tape in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said magazine relative to said base member so that said head is positioned to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine.
Claim 56
Independent Claim
128 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a base member, a removable magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, a transducer head positioned on said base member, means for positioning said magazine on said base member with said transducer head in position to engage the tape in one of said cartridges, means including said head for playing the tape in said one cartridge, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said magazine relative to said base member so that said head is positioned to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
50 words
The combination of claim 31, which includes means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for moving said magazine relative to said base member until said head is positioned to play the tape in a cartridge positioned at another one of said locations in said magazine.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
130 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moviNg said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation another of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive means is moving tape for positioning said drive means in operative relation with a different one of said cartridges while the tape in said rejected cartridge remains in the same position within the cartridge after said drive means is moved out of operative relation therewith.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
130 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moviNg said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation another of said cartridges, and tape cartridge reject means operable during periods when said drive means is moving tape for positioning said drive means in operative relation with a different one of said cartridges while the tape in said rejected cartridge remains in the same position within the cartridge after said drive means is moved out of operative relation therewith.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
59 words
The combination of claim 33, wherein said cartridges each include a pair of reels on which a length of tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, and said automatic tape cartridge changing means is responsive to the increase in tension in the tape in said one cartridge when the end of said tape is reached.
Claim 61
Independent Claim
238 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a vertically extending sleeve, a drive shaft rotatably mounted in said sleeve, cooperating means on said drive shaft and said central apertures of said reels for interlocking any one of said reels with said drive shaft to drive the same, means for positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges, a member secured to the bottom end of said drive shaft, a flywheel rotatably mounted on said sleeve and riding on said member, means for rotating said flywheel, means normally interconnecting said flywheel and said drive shaft so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, and means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for disengaging said flywheel from said drive shaft and causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said interlocking means to position the same for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 62
Independent Claim
238 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a vertically extending sleeve, a drive shaft rotatably mounted in said sleeve, cooperating means on said drive shaft and said central apertures of said reels for interlocking any one of said reels with said drive shaft to drive the same, means for positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges, a member secured to the bottom end of said drive shaft, a flywheel rotatably mounted on said sleeve and riding on said member, means for rotating said flywheel, means normally interconnecting said flywheel and said drive shaft so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, and means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for disengaging said flywheel from said drive shaft and causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said interlocking means to position the same for engagement with a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
34 words
The arrangement set forth in claim 35, which includes means for minimizing friction between said flywheel and said member to prevent tearing of the tape as said flywheel is disengaged from said drive shaft.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
23 words
The arrangement set forth in claim 35, which includes ball bearing means between said flywheel and said member to minimize frictional drag therebetween.
Claim 65
Independent Claim
110 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a removable magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, tape playing means including a transducer head, means for biasing said head into engagement with the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing movement of said magazine so that said head is positioned to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine.
Claim 66
Independent Claim
110 words
An apparatus for automatically playing a group of magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a removable magazine having means defining a plurality of locations at each of which one of said cartridges may be positioned, tape playing means including a transducer head, means for biasing said head into engagement with the magnetic tape in one of said cartridges positioned at one of said locations in said magazine, and automatic cartridge changing means responsive to completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for causing movement of said magazine so that said head is positioned to play the magnetic tape of a cartridge positioned at a different location in said magazine.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
25 words
The combination of claim 38, which includes means for retaining said cartridges in position in said magazine against the force of said head biasing means.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
45 words
The combination of claim 38, which includes means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at said different location for causing relative movement between said magazine and said head until said head is positioned to play the magnetic tape in another one of said cartridges.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
63 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges in succession, the combination of, a drive shaft, a flywheel mounted for rotation on the same axis as said drive shaft, means for rotating said flywheel, means normally connecting said flywheel wiTh said drive shaft, and means responsive to an increased load on said drive shaft for disconnecting said flywheel therefrom.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
63 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges in succession, the combination of, a drive shaft, a flywheel mounted for rotation on the same axis as said drive shaft, means for rotating said flywheel, means normally connecting said flywheel wiTh said drive shaft, and means responsive to an increased load on said drive shaft for disconnecting said flywheel therefrom.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
44 words
The combination of claim 41, wherein said disconnecting means includes a pivotally mounted lever on said flywheel which is movable from a driving position in engagement with said drive shaft to a disengaged position in response to said increased load on said drive shaft.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
51 words
The combination of claim 42, which includes a cycling member movable over a predetermined path during a tape cartridge changing cycle, and means responsive to movement of said lever to said disengaged position for connecting said flywheel to said cycling member so that said cycling member is moved over said path.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
28 words
The combination of claim 43, which includes latching means for holding said lever in said disengaged position, and reset means for returning said lever to said driving position.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
70 words
The combination of claim 44, wherein said reset means comprises a reset member, means on said cycling member for moving said reset member from a first position to a second position as said cycling member moves along said path, means responsive to movement of said reset member to said second position for unlatching said lever, and means carried by said flywheel for returning said reset member to said first position.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
97 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, a plurality of flat rectangular magnetic tape cartridges each having vertically offset positioning flanges on opposite ends thereof, a magazine for holding said cartridges in predetermined spaced relation having a pair of vertically extending side walls, and means defining a series of cartridge supporting ledges on said side walls, said ledges on one of said side walls being offset vertically with respect to said ledges on the other side wall so as to support said cartridges substantially horizontally by engagement of said positioning flanges with said offset ledges.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
97 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, a plurality of flat rectangular magnetic tape cartridges each having vertically offset positioning flanges on opposite ends thereof, a magazine for holding said cartridges in predetermined spaced relation having a pair of vertically extending side walls, and means defining a series of cartridge supporting ledges on said side walls, said ledges on one of said side walls being offset vertically with respect to said ledges on the other side wall so as to support said cartridges substantially horizontally by engagement of said positioning flanges with said offset ledges.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
29 words
The combination of claim 46, which includes interlocking means on said cartridges and said vertically extending side walls for holding said cartridges in a predetermined position in said magazine.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
39 words
The combination of claim 46, which includes means defining deflectable positioning lugs on the ends of said cartridges, and means on said side walls cooperating with said positioning lugs for holding said cartridges in predetermined positions in said magazine.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
42 words
The combination of claim 46, wherein each of said cartridges has an opening in one edge thereof through which magnetic tape within the cartridge is accessible, and said magazine has a vertically extending slot in alignment with said openings in said cartridges.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
43 words
The combination of claim 49, wherein said positioning flanges of said cartridges are so arranged with respect to said supporting ledges that said cartridges can be horizontally inserted into said magazine with the edge opening thereof facing said vertical slot in said magazine.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
129 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means including a cycling member mounted for rotation about a fixed axis and movable over a predetermined path in one direction about said axis during a tape cartridge changing cycle, means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said member over said predetermined path, and means responsive to movement of said member in said one direction over said path for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation with another of said cartridges.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
129 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means including a cycling member mounted for rotation about a fixed axis and movable over a predetermined path in one direction about said axis during a tape cartridge changing cycle, means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for moving said member over said predetermined path, and means responsive to movement of said member in said one direction over said path for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation with another of said cartridges.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
56 words
The combination of claim 51, which includes a transducer head normally in engagement with the tape in said one cartridge, and means responsive to movement of said cycling member over said path for moving said head out of engagemEnt with the tape in said one cartridge and into engagement with the tape in said other cartridge.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
38 words
The combination of claim 51, wherein said plurality of cartridges are positioned within a magazine, and means responsive to movement of said cycling member during a cartridge changing cycle for moving said magazine relative to said drive means.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
23 words
The combination of claim 53, which includes means for limiting the total amount of movement of said magazine during successive cartridge changing cycles.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
45 words
The combination of claim 53, which includes means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at a particular location in said magazine for moving said cycling member over said path until said drive means is positioned in operative relation to another cartridge in said magazine.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
27 words
The combination of claim 53, which includes means for preventing movement of said magazine during periods when a tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
79 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means including a flywheel for moving the tape in each of said cartridges, said drive means being initially positioned in operative relation to the tape in one of said cartridges, and means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
79 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, drive means including a flywheel for moving the tape in each of said cartridges, said drive means being initially positioned in operative relation to the tape in one of said cartridges, and means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
68 words
The combination of claim 57, wherein said cartridges each contain a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof secured to said reels, said drive means is interlocked with one of said reels in said one cartridge, and said disconnecting means is responsive to the increase in tension when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
48 words
The combination of claim 57, wherein said cartridges each contain a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each of said reels having a central aperture therein, and said drive means includes a drive shaft positionable in said central apertures of said reels.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
58 words
The combination of claim 59, wherein said cartridges are positioned with said central apertures of one reel thereof in alignment, said drive shaft extends into said aligned apertures, and cooperating means on said drive shaft and said central apertures for interlocking said drive shaft with one reel in one of said cartridges to move the tape contained therein.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
42 words
The combination of claim 60, wherein said flywheel is mounted for rotation on the same axis as said drive shaft and means are provided for disconnecting said drive shaft from said flywheel while maintaining said drive shaft interlocked with said one reel.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
47 words
The combination of claim 61, wherein said disconnecting means includes a member secured to said drive shaft and a spring biased lever carried by said flywheel, said lever being normally positioned to engage said member and being movable to a position out of engagement with said member.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
32 words
The combination of claim 62, wherein said member comprises a plate having at least one notch in the periphery thereof, and said lever includes a roller arranged to seat in said notch.
Claim 96
Independent Claim
175 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof connected to said pair of reels, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with any one of said reels, means for positioning said magazine with said drive shaft interlocking means adapted to drive said one reel of one of said cartridges, means for rotating said drive shaft so that the tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, automatic tripping means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for initiating an automatic tape cartridge change cycle, and means operative during said change cycle for causing relative movement between said magazine and said interlocking means so that said interlocking means is positioned for engagement with a reel on a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 97
Independent Claim
175 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a magazine, a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges positioned in predetermined relation in said magazine and each having a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound with the ends thereof connected to said pair of reels, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with any one of said reels, means for positioning said magazine with said drive shaft interlocking means adapted to drive said one reel of one of said cartridges, means for rotating said drive shaft so that the tape in said one cartridge is wound on said one reel, automatic tripping means responsive to the increased load on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached for initiating an automatic tape cartridge change cycle, and means operative during said change cycle for causing relative movement between said magazine and said interlocking means so that said interlocking means is positioned for engagement with a reel on a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
49 words
The apparatus of claim 64, which includes a gear, means on said magazine in engagement with said gear, and means operative during said change cycle for rotating said gear an amount sufficient to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel on a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
32 words
The apparatus of claim 64, wherein said drive shaft extends vertically and said magazine is initially positioned so that said interlocking means is in engagement with the uppermost cartridge in said magazine.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
50 words
The apparatus of claim 64, which includes manually operable reject means operable during periods when tape is being wound on one of said reels for moving said magazine relative to said interlocking means to position said interlocking means for engagement with a reel in a selected one of said cartridges.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
21 words
The apparatus of claim 64, which includes means for indicating the position of said magazine with respect to said interlocking means.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
48 words
The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the tape in said cartridges are successively played in the order in which said cartridges are arranged in said magazine, and means responsive to completion of play of the last cartridge in said magazine for moving said magazine to an unloading position
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 69, wherein said drive shaft rotating means is disabled when said magazine is moved to said unloading position.
Claim 104
Independent Claim
149 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with the central aperture of any one of said reels to drive the same, means for positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound onto said one reel, and automatic cartridge changing means for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for driving a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 105
Independent Claim
149 words
An apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges, comprising a plurality of magnetic tape cartridges each containing a pair of reels on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, each of said reels having a central aperture therein and said cartridges having openings therein providing access to said central apertures, a drive shaft having means adapted to interlock with the central aperture of any one of said reels to drive the same, means for positioning said plurality of cartridges in spaced relation with said drive shaft extending into the central aperture of one reel in one of said cartridges so that the magnetic tape in said one cartridge is wound onto said one reel, and automatic cartridge changing means for causing relative movement between said plurality of cartridges and said drive shaft to position said interlocking means for driving a reel in a different one of said cartridges.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
55 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 71, wherein the ends of each tape are secured to said pair of reels in each of said cartridges and said automatic cartridge changing means is responsive to the increase in tension on said drive shaft when the end of the tape in said one cartridge is reached.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
44 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 71, which includes a transducer head, and said automatic cartridge changing means includes means for moving said head into engagement with said one tape during the period when said one tape is driven by said drive shaft.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
47 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 71, which includes a magazine adapted to position said plurality of cartridges at different locations therein, said magazine having openings in the ends thereof which permit one reel in each of said cartridges to be positioned over said drive shaft.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
31 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 77, which includes a positioning shaft spaced from said drive shaft by an amount equal to the spacing of said reels within said cartridges.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
36 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 71, wherein each of said cartridges is provided with top and bottom walls having aligned openings therein, and said pair of reels are loosely retained in said aligned openings.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
35 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 76, wherein each of said reels is provided with a hub portion through which said central aperture extends, said hub portions being loosely retained in said aligned openings.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
36 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 71, wherein said drive shaft includes a head portion provided with a projecting member which is adapted to interlock with the central aperture of any one of said reels.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
44 words
An apparatus as set forth in claim 78, wherein said projecting member is spring biased to an outer position and said central aperture of each of said reels is provided with a series of vertically extending grooves therein adapted to receive said projecting member.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
140 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, a flywheel, means for rotating said flywheel, drive means normally connected to said flywheel for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means including a cycling member movable over a predetermined path during a tape cartridge changing cycle, means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means and connecting said flywheel to said cycling member, thereby to move said member over said predetermined path, and means responsive to movement of said member over said path for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation with another of said cartridges.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
140 words
In an apparatus for automatically playing magnetic tape cartridges each having reel means on which a length of magnetic tape is wound, the combination of, a flywheel, means for rotating said flywheel, drive means normally connected to said flywheel for moving the tape in one of said cartridges, automatic tape cartridge changing means including a cycling member movable over a predetermined path during a tape cartridge changing cycle, means responsive to the completion of play of the tape in said one cartridge for disconnecting said flywheel from said drive means and connecting said flywheel to said cycling member, thereby to move said member over said predetermined path, and means responsive to movement of said member over said path for moving said drive means out of operative relation with said one cartridge and into operative relation with another of said cartridges.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
56 words
The combination of claim 80, which includes a transducer head normally in engagement with the tape in said one cartridge, and means responsive to movement of said cycling member over said path for moving said head out of engagement with the tape in said one cartridge and into engagement with the tape in said other cartridge.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
21 words
The combination of claim 80, wherein said cycling member is movable over said predetermined path during one revolution of said flywheel.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
24 words
The combination of claim 80, which includes means responsive to completion of play of all of said cartridges for terminating rotation of said flywheel.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
28 words
The combination of claim 80, wherein said drive means includes a drive shaft and said flywheel is mounted for rotation about the same axis as said drive shaft.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
17 words
The combination of claim 84, wherein said drive shaft is mounted for rotation about a vertical axis.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
29 words
The combination of claim 80, wherein said drive means includes a drive shaft and said cycling member is mounted for rotation about the same axis as said drive shaft.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
25 words
The combination of claim 86, wherein said drive shaft, said cycling member and said flywheel are all three mounted for rotation about the same axis.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
10 words
The combination of claim 87, wherein said axis extends vertically.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
28 words
The combination of claim 86, wherein said drive shaft carries a drive assembly arranged to be selectively interlocked with said reel means in different ones of said cartridges.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
31 words
The combination of claim 86, wherein said drive shaft is mounted for rotation about a vertical axis and extends through an aperture in said reel means in each of said cartridges.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
24 words
The combination of claim 90, wherein said vertically extending drive shaft rides on a single ball bearing in engagement with the bottom end thereof.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
38 words
The combination of claim 80, wherein said plurality of cartridges are positioned within a magazine, and means responsive to movement of said cycling member during a cartridge changing cycle for moving said magazine relative to said drive means.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
69 words
The combination of claim 92, which includes means for limiting the total amount of movement of said magazine during successive cartridge changing cycles. 94. The combination of claim 92, which includes means responsive to the absence of a cartridge at a particular location in said magazine for moving said cycling member over said path until said drive means is positioned in operative relation with another cartridge in said magazine.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
27 words
The combination of claim 92, which includes means for preventing movement of said magazine during pEriods when a tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
30 words
The combination of claim 92, which includes gear means responsive to movement of said cycling member during a cartridge changing cycle for moving said magazine relative to said drive means.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
26 words
The combination of claim 96, which includes means for preventing movement of said gear means while the tape in one of said cartridges is being played.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
25 words
The combination of claim 96, which includes detent means in engagement with said gear means for establishing a plurality of detented positions for said magazine.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
42 words
The combination of claim 96, wherein said magazine is movable vertically, and said gear means includes a series of vertically extending teeth on said magazine and a gear mounted for rotation about a horizontal axis and engaging said teeth on said magazine.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
31 words
The combination of claim 90, which includes detent means urged into engagement with the side of the teeth of said gear for establishing a plurality of detented positions for said magazine.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
49 words
The combination of claim 99, which includes a locking pin normally positioned between two adjacent teeth of said gear, and means responsive to movement of said cycling member during a cartridge changing cycle for removing said pin from between said adjacent teeth, thereby to permit rotation of said gear.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
34 words
The combination of claim 99, wherein said cycling member comprises a cam plate mounted for rotation about a vertical axis, and cam follower means in engagement with said cam plate for rotating said gear.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
27 words
The combination of claim 102, wherein said cam follower means rotates said gear an amount equal to the circular pitch of the gear teeth on said gear.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
28 words
The combination of claim 102, which includes means for disengaging said cam follower means from said gear when said magazine has been moved to a predetermined unloading position.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1975-03-21 | 1975-09-20 | 1976-03-21 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1979-03-21 | 1979-09-20 | 1980-03-21 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1983-03-21 | 1983-09-20 | 1984-03-21 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |